American Heart Association's checklist

When should I consult my doctor?

Some people should consult their doctor before they start a vigorous exercise program. See your doctor or other healthcare provider if any of these apply to you:

• You have a heart condition or you've had a stroke, and your doctor recommended only medically supervised physical activity.
• During or right after you exercise, you often have pains or pressure in the left or mid-chest area, left neck, shoulder or arm.
• You've developed chest pain or discomfort within the last month.
• You tend to lose consciousness or fall due to dizziness.
• You feel extremely breathless after mild exertion.
• Your doctor recommended you take medicine for your blood pressure, a heart condition or a stroke.
• Your doctor said you have bone, joint or muscle problems that could be made worse by the proposed physical activity.
• You have a medical condition or other physical reason not mentioned here that might need special attention in an exercise program (for example, insulin-dependent diabetes).
• You're middle-aged or older, haven't been physically active, and plan a relatively vigorous exercise program.

From American Heart Association Physical Activity guidelines